external heat and cold had little influence on scrooge. no warmth could warm, nor wintry weather chill him. no wind that blew was bitterer than he, no falling snow was more intent upon its purpose, no pelting rain less open to entreaty. foul weather didn't know where to have him. the heaviest rain, and snow, and hail, and sleet, could boast of the advantage over him in only one respect. they often 'came down' handsomely, and scrooge never did.